Adults, as well as children, are becoming addicts at alarming rates. Many of them are turning to heroin as a last resort, because is cheaper and more easily available than the prescription drugs they are hooked on.

People are losing loved ones. Kids are losing friends. Families are being torn apart. There's an abundance of reasons for this crisis, as are the ways to combat it.

That's why IlluminArt Productions is combatting drug abuse through theater and addressing this crisis with a new play called "Prescription for Addiction." This production tackles the scourge of prescription drug and heroin addiction.

Six years ago, IlluminArt Productions started on Staten Island under the direction of Arlene Sorkin, a social worker with a background in blending theater with education. Every year, their programming has expanded.

It currently includes a touring company that has performed at over 30 schools and community organizations this school year. One of their notable performances is "Peace Up!" for grades 2 to 5, focusing on constructive ways to channel anger; "What Goes Around."

Two more are: "What Goes Around" for grades 6 to 12, addressing violence, bullying, conflict resolution, and respect as a core value and "Sometimes I Just Want Ice Cream" for grades 6 to 12, looking at grief and loss through the eyes of youth.

Natalie DiRocco of Tackling Youth Substance Abuse shared, "It's powerful to see Staten Island teens use their voices through creative outlets to educate their peers on issues impacting the community."

IlluminArt Productions has a mission to empower individuals through theater and is doing this by performing a play that addresses the current drug abuse crisis. These powerful performances are done for schools, PTAs, community groups, and other organizations.

"Prescription for Addiction" was written by seniors at Susan Wagner High School's theater program, in collaboration with IlluminArt's professional teaching artists. The students and artists made sure to use relatable and common language used especially on Staten Island. This play provides people, especially teenagers, with the tools and knowledge they need to prevent drug abuse.

Staten Island Borough President James Oddo said, "This is a problem that we as a community must own, keep out in the open, and not be ashamed to talk about or discuss. IlluminArt's combination of compelling theater and a powerful message will help us in these efforts."

IlluminArt's Executive Director, Arlene Sorkin, shared "When people -- young people in particular -- are presented with scenes similar to what they might encounter in real life, and are then shown ways to respond appropriately, it empowers them to resist peer pressure."

She added, "Parents with a real understanding of what their children might be facing are better equipped to handle situations and will know they are not alone in any struggles they may face."

All of the material has been reviewed and edited by addiction specialists and health professionals to assure the accuracy and value of the message displayed in the play. It also has the backing and support of a number of Staten Island elected officials. "Prescription for Addiction" was developed with funding from NYS Senator Andrew Lanza, NYC Council Member Steven Matteo, and the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs.

"I have been impressed with the work done by IlluminArt Productions for years now, as its team addresses social issues through theater. I am pleased and proud to support them as they provide another weapon in our arsenal against the plague of heroin addiction that is ravaging our community," said NYS Senator Andrew Lanza.

Council Member Matteo added, "IlluminArt does a fantastic job of engaging and educating young people about drugs through performing arts and that is why I am glad to contribute to their efforts for another year."

NYS Assembly Member Michael Cusick also supports IlluminArt and their efforts to end this drug epidemic. He said, "I cannot thank the students and staff from IlluminArt and Susan Wagner High School enough for their tremendous efforts in addressing the opioid epidemic that has touched too many lives in our borough."

To schedule a showing of "Prescription for Addiction" at your location, call 347-951-9650 or email